Defenders LIVE Podcast

Lora Thorson, Defenders USA
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  • Self-Improvement
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Welcome to the Defenders LIVE community! This is where you can find information and inspiration to grow as a defender both on and off the range. www.defenders-live.com

  1. Ep. 191 | The Digital Battle Most Parents Don't See w/ Dr. Deanne Regaisis

    16h ago

    Ep. 191 | The Digital Battle Most Parents Don't See w/ Dr. Deanne Regaisis

    Your kids may be fighting battles you never see. Not on the playground. Behind a screen. In this conversation, Dr. Deanne Regaisis shares what years of research have revealed about cyberbullying, digital safety, and the growing emotional and spiritual challenges young people face online. We discuss why so many children suffer in silence, how cyberbullying can escalate into far more dangerous situations, and why parents need more than rules. They need meaningful conversations and relationships built on trust. We also explore why Ephesians 6 is more relevant than ever, what it means to equip our children with the full armor of God, and how families can intentionally prepare the next generation to navigate a digital world with wisdom, courage, and discernment. If we want to raise defenders, we must first prepare them for the battles they cannot see. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In this conversation with Dr. Deanne Regaisis, we discuss why cyberbullying is more than kids being mean online and how parents can better prepare their children for the emotional and spiritual challenges of today’s digital world. You’ll learn: • Why kids often stay silent about cyberbullying• How online conflict can escalate into much more serious dangers• Practical ways to start meaningful conversations at home• Why the full armor of God matters in the digital age• How to help your children build resilience instead of fear Our children don’t just need screen limits. They need truth, discernment, and relationships that make them feel safe enough to ask for help. Watch now on YouTube or Defenders-LIVE.com.Learn more at www.Plus3forcybersafety.orgNewsletter with information discussed in the interview: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/86d57d9407.html Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    29 min
  2. Ep. 190 | The Difference Between Transactional and Transformational Living w/ Ryan Luchau

    Jul 2

    Ep. 190 | The Difference Between Transactional and Transformational Living w/ Ryan Luchau

    After returning from deployment and struggling with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, and nervous system dysregulation, Ryan began a journey that would change the course of his life. What started as a search for answers eventually led him into functional health, genetics, faith-based coaching, and a deeper understanding of what it means to steward the body, mind, and soul God has entrusted to us. In this conversation, we discuss temple optimization, nervous system regulation, genetics, identity, purpose, stewardship, and why so many people unknowingly live transactionally instead of transformationally. Ryan shares lessons from military service, leading Impact Montana, overcoming burnout, and launching Mission Mindset Solutions to help others pursue health through a faith-centered lens. Most people are trying to fix symptoms. Very few are asking better questions. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In this episode, Ryan Luchau shares the lessons he learned through military service, chronic health challenges, burnout, faith, and years of helping veterans and first responders find a path forward. You’ll learn: • The difference between transactional and transformational living• Why identity and purpose matter more than outcomes• How small daily choices shape the person you become• Why stewardship matters in your life• How physical health impacts spiritual health Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations. Learn more at MissionMindsetSolutions.com Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    1h 5m
  3. Ep. 189 | The Psychology of Peak Performance w/ Green Beret Kirk Holmer

    Jun 25

    Ep. 189 | The Psychology of Peak Performance w/ Green Beret Kirk Holmer

    Most people think performance is determined in the moment. Kirk Holmer disagrees. A retired Army Special Forces Senior Sergeant, three-time Tactical Games National Champion, and student of human performance, Kirk has spent decades studying what separates those who perform under pressure from those who fall apart when the stakes are high. In this conversation, we explore the psychology of confidence, the power of self-talk, the role of identity in performance, and why the story you tell yourself may be shaping far more of your future than you realize. Kirk shares lessons from elite military training, competitive shooting, athletics, and life that challenge the way many of us think about success, resilience, and mental toughness. We also discuss grit, goal setting, pressure, failure, and why confidence is not something you’re born with. It’s something you build through preparation, repetition, and keeping promises to yourself. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, performance anxiety, or the feeling that you’re capable of more than you’re currently achieving, this conversation will give you practical tools and a new perspective on what it takes to grow. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll learn: Why the story you tell yourself mattersHow confidence is built through actionWhat grit actually isHow to stay focused under pressureWhy process goals matter more than outcome goals Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations. Check out www.TotalOperatorChallenge.com Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    1h 27m
  4. Ep. 188 | The Difference Between Heroes and Hollywood w/ NYT Bestselling Author John Gilstrap

    Jun 18

    Ep. 188 | The Difference Between Heroes and Hollywood w/ NYT Bestselling Author John Gilstrap

    John Gilstrap has spent a lifetime studying courage from every angle. Before becoming a New York Times bestselling author with more than 30 books to his name, John spent 15 years in fire and rescue, responding to some of the worst moments in people’s lives. Later, while researching real-world special operations missions, he earned rare access to Delta Force operators, military leaders, and the true story behind one of the most daring hostage rescues in modern history. In this conversation, we go far beyond books and movies. We talk about trust, leadership under pressure, what real violence looks like, and why the people most capable of protecting others are often the least interested in talking about themselves. John shares lessons from emergency response, special operations, marriage, storytelling, and a lifetime of walking toward difficult situations when others were running away. We also discuss the responsibility that comes with being prepared, the importance of strong teams, the dangers of Hollywood myths, and why leadership is often less about authority and more about earning trust. At its core, this conversation is about what it means to be a defender. Not someone who seeks attention or recognition, but someone who quietly accepts responsibility when the stakes are high. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In this episode, bestselling author and former firefighter John Gilstrap shares lessons learned from emergency response, special operations, leadership, and a lifetime of serving others. You’ll learn: What real courage looks like under pressureWhy trust is earned one decision at a timeWhat Hollywood gets wrong about violence and preparednessHow great leaders inspire others to followWhy defenders accept responsibility before they feel ready www.johngilstrap.com Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com and subscribe for future conversations. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    1h 8m
  5. Ep. 187 | The Courage to Keep Showing Up | 2A Advocate & Instructor Dakota Adelphia

    Jun 11

    Ep. 187 | The Courage to Keep Showing Up | 2A Advocate & Instructor Dakota Adelphia

    Most people quit when things get hard. Dakota Adelphia chose a different path. From teaching herself through educational setbacks, to biking across America at fifteen, to becoming one of the leading voices in concealed carry education, Dakota’s story is a masterclass in grit, responsibility, and courage. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why doing hard things builds confidence that can’t be faked• How personal responsibility creates real freedom• The mindset behind effective self-defense and preparedness• Why community matters when you’re standing for your convictions Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our LIVE group calls and help continue this mission, become a paid subscriber. In this powerful conversation, Dakota Adelphia shares a remarkable journey of resilience, responsibility, and purpose. From overcoming an unconventional childhood education and biking across America at fifteen years old to becoming a respected firearms instructor, concealed carry educator, and Second Amendment advocate in California, Dakota’s story is a testament to grit, faith, and refusing to quit. Lora and Dakota dive into the mindset behind personal protection, the importance of doing hard things, and why confidence is built through preparation, not comfort. They also explore Dakota’s work with A Girl and a Gun, her mission to help women become capable defenders, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, community, and serving others without becoming bitter along the way. Watch more conversations that strengthen your mindset, deepen your faith, and challenge you to live boldly at Defenders LIVE. Subscribe for future episodes and visit Defenders-LIVE.com for more inspiring content. www.dakotaadelphia.com https://www.youtube.com/@GunOwnersRadio https://www.facebook.com/dakota.adelphia https://www.instagram.com/lifewithadelphia/ Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    1h 21m
  6. Ep. 186 | He Lost Everything… Then God Told Him to Get Up | Tyler Tharp’s Story

    Jun 4

    Ep. 186 | He Lost Everything… Then God Told Him to Get Up | Tyler Tharp’s Story

    What if the hardest battle you’ll ever fight is the one inside your own mind? In this powerful conversation, Tyler Tharp opens up about: Losing his father the night he came home from the ArmyBattling anger, hopelessness, and self-destructionThe moment God told him, “Get up. I’m not done with you yet.”Why discipline includes rest and recoveryHow faith transformed the way he sees purpose, love, and masculinity This episode is real, raw, and full of hard-earned wisdom for anyone carrying heavy burdens or searching for deeper meaning in life. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, become a paid subscriber. In this deeply honest conversation, Lora sits down with firearms instructor and coach Tyler Tharp to unpack the painful journey that shaped his faith, mindset, and purpose. Tyler shares the devastating losses that defined his early adulthood, including losing his father the night he returned home from the Army, battling anger and self-destruction, and ultimately reaching a breaking point that forced him to confront his mental and spiritual health head-on. Together, they explore the connection between discipline and rest, the trap of tying self-worth to achievement, and the healing that comes through surrendering control to God. This episode is raw, thoughtful, and deeply relatable for anyone who feels exhausted from trying to carry life on their own strength. It’s a conversation about resilience, purpose, forgiveness, and learning that true strength starts in the heart. Watch more conversations at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future episodes focused on courage, faith, mindset, and personal growth. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    1h 16m
  7. Ep. 185 | Why Everyday Americans Must Step Up Against Career Politicians | Daniel Keenan

    May 28

    Ep. 185 | Why Everyday Americans Must Step Up Against Career Politicians | Daniel Keenan

    What happens when an everyday businessman decides he’s no longer willing to sit on the sidelines? In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora Thorson sits down with Arizona congressional candidate Daniel Keenan for a conversation that goes far beyond politics. Together, they explore leadership, personal responsibility, constitutional freedom, faith, and the growing hunger Americans have for authenticity in a world full of polished talking points. Daniel shares his journey from blue-collar work and homebuilding to stepping into the political arena, driven by a desire to protect faith, family, freedom, and the future of everyday Americans. They discuss border security, the Second Amendment, term limits, public safety, and why more ordinary citizens need to rise up and lead. This is a grounded, honest conversation about courage, conviction, and what it really means to serve others with integrity. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora sits down with Arizona congressional candidate Daniel Keenan for a raw and honest discussion about leadership, freedom, faith, and why everyday Americans can’t afford to stay silent anymore. In this conversation, you’ll hear: * Why more citizens need to step forward * The connection between freedom and personal responsibility * Thoughts on border security, the Second Amendment, and public safety * Why authenticity matters more than polished talking points * How faith and conviction shape true leadership Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future episodes on Defenders LIVE. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    59 min
  8. Ep. 184 | Jacob Paulsen of ConcealedCarry.com Gets Real About Business, Branding, and Belief

    May 21

    Ep. 184 | Jacob Paulsen of ConcealedCarry.com Gets Real About Business, Branding, and Belief

    People can tell when someone is real. That is one of the biggest takeaways from this conversation with Jacob Paulsen. We talked about leadership, faith, authenticity, business, personal growth, and why people are starving for honesty in a world that feels increasingly fake. In this episode:• Jacob shares how ConcealedCarry.com was built from the ground up• We talk about what actually makes a great instructor• Why authenticity matters more than image• The future of AI and how it is changing business• The vision behind Guardian University and Guardian Conference• How strong brands are built through trust and integrity Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our exclusive Defenders LIVE group calls, become a paid subscriber. What does it take to build trust in a world full of noise? In this conversation, Jacob Paulsen shares the real story behind building ConcealedCarry.com, creating one of the largest firearms training networks in the country, and learning what authentic leadership actually looks like along the way. Lora and Jacob talk about everything from business and branding to faith, mindset, personal growth, and the responsibility that comes with leading others. Jacob opens up about his early struggles as an instructor, why great teachers are always students first, and how authenticity has become one of the most important qualities in today’s world. They also dive into the future of AI, the mission behind Guardian Conference, and the launch of Guardian University, a growing platform designed to bring trusted training and meaningful conversations together in one place. Defenders LIVE is now featured inside Guardian University as part of that vision. This episode is thoughtful, honest, and full of practical wisdom for anyone trying to lead with courage and live with purpose. Watch more at Defenders LIVE and learn more at ConcealedCarry.com. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    1 hr
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About

Welcome to the Defenders LIVE community! This is where you can find information and inspiration to grow as a defender both on and off the range. www.defenders-live.com

Information

  • Creator
    Lora Thorson, Defenders USA
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    119
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lora T
  • Show Website
    Defenders LIVE Podcast

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